Merw, Turkmenistan

You can see the ruins of the ancient city of Merv in Tajikistan. They are also a landmark of world significance. The results of the study showed that the very first city was founded in these places in the era of the Margian civilization. This corresponds to the beginning of the 2nd Millennium BC. The city was called Mouru initially. Its area has expanded to 60 square kilometers over hundreds of years. The city has had to endure many devastating battles over the years. It fully recovered and continued to develop after each of them.

Merv suffered a major defeat from the Mongol invaders only in the early 13th century. The city was almost completely in ruins after a series of battles. The citizens managed to partially restore their homes and irrigation systems only by the 15th century. But the ancient city never managed to achieve its former greatness. Archaeological research of the ancient city began in the late 19th century. It was impossible to assume before they started that Merv was one of the oldest cities on our planet.

You can see the ruins of both very ancient structures and younger buildings on the territory of the archaeological area today. They are well preserved after hundreds of years. One of the main sites of the ancient city is considered to be Erk Kala Citadel. Its area is 12 hectares. The most interesting architectural structure is the mausoleum of Sanjar Dar-al-Akhir. It was built in the first half of the 12th century. One of the most ancient areas of development is Gyaur-Kala. The age of the ruins preserved here is more than 3,000 years. An impregnable fortress with an area of about 300 hectares was once located in this area. Next - Luxor